LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – A local nonprofit dedicated to helping animals is sharing information about the dog flu.
The SPCA of Lake County said that while the dog flu – also known as CIV H3N2/H3N8 – has not been diagnosed in Lake County, there are 50 confirmed cases and over 200 suspected cases in the Bay Area.
Dogs can be at risk for canine influenza regardless of age, sex or breed. It is commonly spread through direct dog contact such as sniffing, licking and nuzzling; through the air through coughing or sneezing; via contaminated surfaces, such as sharing water bowls or toys; or through contaminated humans who have viruses from another dog on their hands or clothing, the SPCA said.
Dog flu symptoms are like the human variety of flu and include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, decreased appetite, lethargy and fever. The SPCA said most dogs recover in two to three weeks with proper nutrition and rest, however an unlucky few may develop secondary infections such as pneumonia.
The SPCA of Lake County recognizes what an impact contracting influenza will have not only on the dogs that get it, but on their owners who care for them and has decided to take a proactive approach and offer the vaccine to address it now.
Like the human flu vaccine, the canine influenza vaccine will not prevent infection but may limit its duration and severity, the SPCA said. The vaccination is administered in two doses over three to five weeks, providing protection for one year.
The SPCA will be offering the vaccination for $20, followed by a free booster the following month. This is considerably less than most veterinary clinics are charging. It is recommended that vaccination be repeated annually.
The SPCA of Lake County will be holding its monthly vaccination clinic this Sunday, February 18, from 9 to 11 a.m. at 8025 Highway 29 in Kelseyville and will have the vaccine available there.
The Novibac vaccination is not recommended for dogs under 7 weeks of age, or those that are pregnant.
Limited quantities are available and owners must show current proof of rabies vaccination. Rabies vaccines will also be available at the clinic.
If your dog frequently comes in contact with other dogs – at dog parks or doggy day care – or frequents places where other dogs can be found, such as groomers, kennels or dog shows, the SPCA urges you to consider making this one of your pet's annual vaccinations.
SPCA of Lake County responds to dog flu concerns
- Lake County News reports
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